Coke History
Pharmacist J.S. Pemberton developed the formula for Coca-Cola in 1886, and for the past 122 years coca-cola advertising products have hit the streets in record numbers and quantities. The Coca-Cola Company has mounted some of the most successful advertising campaigns not only in this country, but all over the globe.
Santa Claus by Coke
From the very start, the company projected an image of wholesomeness and patriotism. Early print advertisements featured beautiful women, adorable children, and winsome teenagers; some simply enjoyed a refreshing glassful, while for others, it’s a much needed thirst quencher and energizer during All-American pursuit like “motoring”, swimming, golfing, diving, and skating. Coca-Cola advertising was so ubiquitous, that Santa Claus, as he is pictured today, was the result of a 1931 Coke campaign designed by illustrator Haddon Sunblom, who modeled the “Jolly old Elf” after himself. From 1931 to 1966, Sunblom’s Santa was the star of Coca-Colas seasonal advertising and to this day influences the American ideal of Santa Claus.
Authentic Trays by Coca-Cola
The trays are the biggest single category, with at least 47 versions manufactured over the years. The oldest trays are not surprisingly, the most valuable, with the 1897 Victorian lady tray known to have sold for as much as $12,000. While it’s not difficult to find most of the trays, people used them, and wet glasses of refreshing Coke created lots of rust. Mint condition examples are unusual, and command high prices. Prices for the common trays from the 1950’s and later have fallen substantially, for example, a 1950’s Menu Girl tray has a stated worth in a collector book of $60 , but sold recently on eBay for under $10.
Reproduction/Reissue Coke Trays
During the 1970’s when Americana was a popular decorating motif, Coca-Cola issued reproductions of some of their most popular early trays. These reproductions will be marked as such on the backs. In the 1980’s, they did the same, in honor of their 100th anniversary. While these are authentic, Coca-Cola issued trays they are considerably less valuable than their antique and vintage counterparts. All of the 10 ½” x 13 ½” trays from 1910-1942 are marked on the back with a manufacture date and the words made in USA, American Artworks, Inc, Coshocton, Ohio.
Coke Tray Forgeries
Not surprisingly, forgeries have been found of the most valuable trays. Examples from the following years have been reproduced: 1897 Victorian Lady, 1901 Hilda Clark, 1907 Relieves Fatigue, 1910 & 1913 Hamilton King Girl in Hat, 1914 Betty, 1925 Patty, 1926 Golfers, 1934 Weismuller & O’Sullivan 1937 Running Girl.